The National Association of Institutional Suppliers (NAIS) has reaffirmed its decision to stage a protest at the Ministry of Education on Thursday, June 11, despite renewed assurances from government officials that efforts are underway to clear outstanding debts owed to suppliers under the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) programme.

The association is seeking the release of nearly GH¢50 million, which it says remains unpaid for supplies delivered to senior high schools across the country since 2023.

The decision was reached after a meeting between representatives of the association and officials of the Free SHS Secretariat on Wednesday, June 10. During the engagement, suppliers were briefed on measures being taken to process the arrears and were encouraged to remain patient.

However, NAIS maintains that repeated promises over the past two years have failed to translate into actual payments.

In an earlier statement issued on June 3, the association explained that the planned demonstration was intended to draw attention to the prolonged delays in settling debts owed to companies that supplied school uniforms, house dresses and school fabrics under the Free SHS programme.

According to the group, several suppliers have continued to face financial difficulties after delivering goods to schools without receiving payment since 2023, despite numerous attempts to engage relevant authorities on the matter.

President of the group Emmanuel Ayivor said members were not convinced by the latest assurances and would therefore proceed with the planned picket.

While acknowledging the engagement with officials of the Free SHS Secretariat, he stressed that suppliers were growing increasingly frustrated by the persistent delays and would continue to demand the immediate settlement of the outstanding debt.

Mr. Ayivor indicated that the protest would serve as a reminder of the urgent need for government to honour its financial obligations to suppliers whose businesses have been affected by the prolonged non-payment.

The association insists it will maintain pressure on authorities until concrete steps are taken to clear the arrears and restore confidence among suppliers participating in the Free SHS programme.